Panasonic ZS40 vs Sony W690

Following is a detailed analysis of the Panasonic ZS40 versus Sony W690, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the ZS40 (18MP) and the W690 (16MP) is very well matched and they feature the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The ZS40 was unveiled 23 months after the W690 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the ZS40 scores against the W690 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W690. The full galleries are available at Panasonic ZS40 Gallery and Sony W690 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera often, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Panasonic ZS40 has exterior measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs) and the Sony W690 has measurements of 94mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Take a look at the Panasonic ZS40 versus Sony W690 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using during that time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the ZS40 compared to the W690.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the ZS40 and W690 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to visualize the gap between sensor sizes merely by checking specifications. The image underneath will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the ZS40 and W690.

To sum up, both the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but different MP. You should expect to see the Panasonic ZS40 to give you extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The newer ZS40 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.